At a recent Vexus Roundup we got the chance to really dig into the all-new Defender Series from Vexus.  The Defender Series marks a bold evolution in Vexus design — a lineup built for anglers who demand high‑level performance in a lighter, tougher, more versatile aluminum platform.

It’s packed with several premium features we’ve come to love in our AVX Dream Rigs here at Anglers Channel, but priced to provide the most bang for your buck on the water.

Like all Vexus rigs, the Defender Series in cradled in a custom-built and matched Vexus trailer and includes custom aluminum wheels, including a road-ready spare…no donuts here!

The Defender platform sits on a Hybrid Performance Hull, which includes a pad design, with lifting strakes formed into the 0.125 inch hull bottom.

During our 189 demo runs on a choppy Bull Shoals, all these features together left us with an AVX-like ride and performance; a FAR cry from the “jon” boats of the past.  With standard hydraulic steering, driving and maneuvering feels effortless, even “sporty”.  A quick hole shot, tight cornering without skips and or slips, and a dry quiet ride are all things you can expect from the cockpit of a Defender.

In terms of the cockpit, there is a lot to love there as well.  A color-matched FIBERGLASS console, like the AVX line, houses all the necessary gauges and instruments and still has plenty of room for electronics.  In terms of electronics, Vexus gives you the power of choice with the “Big 3 manufacturers” for both the console and bow, as well as trolling motor options.  You can also count on good clean reliable power, as the Defenders still feature premium Vexus wiring harnesses, as well 4 ga trolling motor wiring up to the bow.

You won’t find ANY wood in the Defender Series, but you do find a lot of nice “touches” with the Vexus fit and finish evident throughout.  The fiberglass console and recessed trolling motor pedal trays look sleek, and the fiberglass storage boxes and livewells are built to last.  You won’t find cheap plastic parts in the Defender Series.  In addition to being well built, the packages look great!  The entire boat features Vexus’ proprietary 3 stage hard case paint and comes in several color choices.

Speaking of choices, at Vexus YOU have the power of choice too.  Suzuki, Mercury, and Yamaha powered packages are all available, in addition to electronics and trolling motors of your choice.  At Vexus you can still get a true custom boat!

The Defender Series consists of three models, the 181, 189, and 201.

The Defender 181 specs out as follows:

Length: 18′ 1″ / Max HP: 75 / Beam: 94″ / Fuel: 26 gallons

If you’re looking for a little more room and power, the Defender 189 may fit the bill.

The Defender 189 specs out as follows:

Length 18′ 7″ / Max HP 115 / Beam: 94″ / Fuel: 26 gallons

If you are more at home in the marsh, or like multi-species fishing, the 201 is in a class of it’s own!

The Defender 201 specs out as follows:

Length: 20′ / Max HP 150 / Beam: 95″ / Fuel: 30 gallons

If you are on the hunt for quality fishing boat in 2026, do yourself a favor, and give a good look at the Vexus Defender Series. These boats close the gap between aluminum and fiberglass in a way few boats ever have. It’s built for anglers who want:

• Serious performance
• Tournament‑ready layouts
• Lower weight and easier ownership
• Premium feel without the fiberglass price tag

It’s a boat that works as hard as you do—and looks good doing it.  Learn more by visiting: https://vexusboats.com/series/defender/overview/